Atlético Ottawa Face Forge FC in the CPL Semi-Finals

The Canadian Premier League playoffs continue this weekend, and Atlético Ottawa are in Hamilton to take on Forge FC in the semi-final. Forge FC has been in the final for the last five years, winning four times, including in 2022, when they beat Atlético Ottawa.

While history may favour the home side, the never-die spirit of Atlético will be tested this weekend.

They say to understand where you are going, you must understand where you have been. Well, Atlético was the worst team in 2021. Out of eight teams, they were last place.

Ottawa had a breakout year in 2022. They finished first place, and Manager Carlos Gonzalez was recognized as the Coach of the Year. Midfielder Ollie Bassett was awarded the Players Player of the Year. While they finished first in the standings, they lost in the final.

In 2023, Atlético just missed out on the playoffs, leaving fans wanting to see changes in 2024. This season saw Atlético off to a dominant start, as they were in first place for the first half of the season. Many key off-season signings led to the resurgence.

A few losses and many ties saw Atlético finish third overall, leaving them in the position of having to win three playoff games in order to hoist the North Star Cup.

The team scored its first win last weekend when it defeated York United, a win that should not be overlooked. Atlético struggled this season against York, who consistently outperformed them. The game went to penalty kicks, and Atlético converted all five penalties. Goalkeeper Nathan Ingham ensured that not all of York’s attempts hit the back of the next.

Last Sunday, first-place Forge played second-place Cavalry from Calgary, who won and will host the Canadian Premier League finals.

Forge ended the season at the top of the standings and is the favourite to win on their home field. The team has almost become synonymous with CPL royalty. However, Atlético Ottawa remains a formidable opponent. In their four encounters with Forge this season, Atlético secured three victories and suffered only one defeat.

Win or lose, it is indisputable that Atlético Ottawa provides phenomenal entertainment for its fans, who have been somewhat of a nuisance for the away teams who visit TD Place.

Forge FC may feel they won’t have to deal with that this weekend, but Atlético has a travelling contingent of supporters who will make the trek to Tim Hortons Field!

You can watch Atlético take on Forge on Saturday at 4 p.m. on OneSoccer or FuboTV.

Photo: Matt Zambonin